Comedy: The Melbourne Uni Law Revue

The Melbourne Uni Law Revue did not even slither into my expectations. Admittedly, I assumed the play would be serious, based on a historical trial or machiavellian crime. But like when choosing a new novel to read, I should have consulted the blurb.The play was comical, a series of skits relating to pop culture and current issues in the media. The audience was greeted with a ‘drugs in sport’-based spoof—a matter most major sporting codes have dealt with, but none with the pizazz and confounding delectability the team of eight displayed at the Melbourne Lithuanian Club on Friday night.Bar a recurring radio show with a sole track listing of “Fergalicious”, a storyline among the many sketches in the student gala is non-existent. But it’s not necessary. The performers double as writers for the show, jam-packing each parody with a tale that is compendious, yet jovial and witty.Even with a lack of narrative, which hinders the spectacle by no means, the show has many highlights that I can only describe in the fashion of a news update: it’s not such a sunny day on Sesame Street as gang leader Elmo shows his Muppet associates who’s boss; in the latest edition of Q&A, host Tony Jones announces how little time they have to talk about anything; Voldemort battles new nemesis and muggle magician Gary Magic; Mario, overwhelmed by the pressure of saving Princess Peach, warbles a tune; and new weatherman Pastor Bill predicts doom for all.Following a milestone year — 2012’s show celebrated 60 years of the revue with guest appearances from Santo Cilauro and Shaun Micallef —, the cast have achieved a stirring feat with audiences so far lapping up their attempt at champagne or, more fittingly, beer comedy.Lachie, Alice, Mel, Sweeney, Will, John, Clare and Ben make up this year’s players (see cast listing). Individually they bring the usual, though impressive, acting, singing and mediocre dancing skills to the table, but collectively they can tick “side-splitting laughter and pants-wetting hilarity” off their to-do list.Producing plenty of talent over the years, including the team from Working Dog (The Castle, Thank God You’re Here), the revue this year may very well have honed the next batch of Australian comedians.The Melbourne Uni Law Revue is playing until August 23. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.thelawrevue.com. Proceeds go to SANE Australia.by Jessica Buccolieri